Changing over your utility services is an essential part of moving. Failing to arrange service with your local utility companies before you move may leave you without water, electricity or internet. Here’s what you need to do to maintain your creature comforts and ensure a seamless move.
Plan Ahead
Utility companies like electricity, natural gas and internet services require a lead time to schedule disconnections and reconnections. You should begin contacting your utility companies about two weeks before your move date. You can do this by phone or online. This ensures adequate time to schedule technicians. Keep in mind, it’s easier to arrange for appliance and utility services on weekdays than on weekends.
Services You’ll Need to Disconnect and Reconnect
Some of the services you’ll need to disconnect and reconnect include the following:
Electricity
Water and sewer
Natural gas
Internet, cable and phone
Home security
You may also need to transfer lawn care and snow removal services to your new address.
If you’re moving within Ontario, the Ontario Energy Board website offers online resources where you can locate the local electric utility and natural gas utility for any city in Ontario.
Give Adequate Notice
Give your service providers two weeks’ notice about your move. The utility companies will likely ask for the following information:
Name
New address
Billing address, if it differs from the above
Home and work phone numbers
A copy of a government-issued ID
Names of any other adults living at the new location
The date on which you want to start the service
Utility companies may charge a setup fee or require a security deposit before connecting you. The utility may waive the fee if you’re a long-time customer in good standing.
Check Your Bills
It’s a good idea to check the final and first utility bills while moving. Check for any hidden fees and confirm your bills are prorated to the dates of disconnection and connection.
Use a Moving Checklist
Arranging utilities is just one of many tasks you’ll need to take on when moving. Calling a moving company to schedule moving services is also something you need to do at least six weeks before your moving day. Check out this moving checklist to help you stay on track.
Contact Your Local Movers in Burlington and Oakville
At Appleby Moving & Storage Ltd., we aim to make your move as smooth as possible, whether you’re changing homes in Ontario, moving across Canada or shipping your things around the world. Our professional local movers will pack, load and deliver your possessions safely and efficiently. We also offer storage space for that in-between period. We serve families in Oakville, Burlington and the Golden Horseshoe. Contact our moving company today to learn more about our services.